More Canceled Summer Programs: Quarles & Brady, Dorsey & Whitney (outside Minneapolis)

The latest Biglaw trend, as the recession rolls on: canceling summer associate programs. Thus far, to the best of our knowledge, only a handful of firms have canceled their summer programs. But we believe that (1) additional firms have already done so but are keeping quiet about it, and (2) more firms will announce cancellations in the weeks ahead, as we approach fall recruiting season.
We’re aware of two new firms that have canceled their summer programs for 2010, in whole or in part. First, Dorsey & Whitney will not be hosting summer associate programs in cities other than Minneapolis. From a firm spokesperson:

Dorsey & Whitney has determined to suspend summer programs in our offices outside Minneapolis in 2010. This action is not an expense reduction measure. Rather, we plan to meet our clients’ needs through the services of our current associates, our new associates starting in the fall and future associates from our summer classes.

Second, Quarles & Brady isn’t having a summer program this coming year. From their website:

Thank you for your interest in Quarles & Brady LLP. At this time we are not currently accepting applications for the 2010 Summer Associate Program. Due to the changing economic environment, and our commitment to our 2009 entry-level associates who will be joining the firm in January 2010, the firm has decided to suspend the 2010 Summer Associate Program. Quarles & Brady remains committed to law school recruiting and entry-level hiring, and we hope you will consider applying in the future.

We wish you the very best this recruiting season!

Readers, what do you think of firms canceling summer programs? Let’s discuss.


We’ve heard from some rising 2Ls going through on-campus interviewing (OCI) who have expressed frustration (especially when the cancellation news came in after OCI bids were due). There is also the sense, in some quarters at least, that a well-run firm shouldn’t have to resort to canceling its summer program (which is why Jones Day is gloating).
On the other hand, killing the summer program may be the responsible thing to do for some firms. An associate at one firm that is considering the move wrote to us:

Rumor is that they’re going to cancel it but no final decision has been made. I’ll tell you one thing though. Associates around here will be pissed if they have it. Why would they hire summers when they’re firing 1st year associates?

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Indeed. In any event, if you’re aware of a canceled summer program that we haven’t already reported on — click here and scroll down to see what we’ve covered already — please email us (subject line: “Canceled Summer Program: [Firm Name]”). Thanks.
P.S. We know that many of you are eagerly waiting a follow-up to our earlier open thread about summer associate offer rates. Rest assured that we’re working on it. Alas, due to the volume of tips to sift through, it will take time. Remember: good things come to those who wait!

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